The City of Jacksonville, Florida declared June 16 as Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Peace and Wellness Day, honoring Indian spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar for his decades-long contribution to peace, mental well-being, and community building.
The proclamation was presented by Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan during a formal ceremony at the University of North Florida, where she recognized Gurudev for his “lifelong service” and “vision of a violence-free, stress-free world.”
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“The City of Jacksonville is committed to fostering a community rooted in dignity, compassion, and belonging for all people, and recognizes the vital role that spiritual and cultural leaders play in advancing peace, well-being, and unity across our neighborhoods,” the proclamation read.
The city acknowledged Gurudev’s founding of the Art of Living Foundation in 1981, which has since expanded to more than 180 countries. The proclamation noted his pioneering efforts in trauma relief, youth empowerment, conflict resolution, and community healing, especially in areas affected by war, natural disasters, and social injustice.
“Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar… has dedicated his life to promoting a vision of a violence-free, stress-free world through inner transformation and the reawakening of human values,” it stated.
According to the proclamation, the mission of the Art of Living Foundation aligns with Jacksonville’s goals of fostering an “inclusive, compassionate, and united community—empowering all residents to live with purpose, peace, and resilience.”
Deegan also expressed gratitude to the Foundation for its continued contribution to Jacksonville’s emotional and civic well-being.
The proclamation concludes by encouraging all residents to recognize Gurudev’s contributions and to support ongoing efforts to build a more peaceful and unified society.
Gurudev’s teachings, including practices such as the Sudarshan Kriya, are credited with promoting holistic well-being—mentally, emotionally, and physically—across millions of lives globally.
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